This article first appeared on Galway Bay FM

Councillor James Charity has explained his decision to join Fine Gael after more than 10 years as an independent.

The Corrandulla-based Councillor had announced his resignation in late 2023 ahead of the 2024 local elections.

But he did a u-turn after no appropriate replacement could be found to represent his local area.

Councillor Charity says he got into politics due to lack of representation for Annaghdown/Corrandulla, as well as lack of investment in local infrastructure.

He told John Morley that’s since been largely addressed, and the backing of a party would be an advantage going forward.